Cole Young -- Performance Analysis
Performance Analysis sources for Cole Young of the Seattle Mariners
Cole Young, the Seattle Mariners' 2022 first-round pick at second base, has emerged as one of the team's best performers in the 2026 season. Through 33 games, Young is batting .276 with a .751 OPS, 19 RBIs, and 3 home runs, representing a significant improvement from his rookie year when he struggled through 77 games. Beyond his offensive contributions, Young has demonstrated elite defense with 9 defensive runs saved, leading all MLB infielders.
ESPN insider Jeff Passan credits Young's breakout to dedicated offseason work that made him noticeably more physical and stronger. Passan noted that Young made a calculated trade-off, accepting increased strikeouts in exchange for more power and damage at the plate. While Passan believes it is premature to declare Young a future star given only one month of the season has passed, he acknowledges Young is on pace for an All-Star campaign if his production continues.
The All-Star opportunity appears favorable for Young due to the relative weakness at second base in the American League. Traditional contenders like Jose Altuve and Jazz Chisholm Jr. have underperformed this season, creating an opening. However, Passan cautioned that opposing scouting reports are being updated in real time, and teams will begin adjusting their approach to Young's newfound success.